Royal Mail - The Chronicles of Narnia

Written by Tony Ward | May 21, 2025 6:04:21 AM

 

For fans of C.S. Lewis's beloved series, stepping into the world of Narnia is always a delight. Now, in a move that merges the charm of literature with the timeless appeal of philately, Royal Mail has issued a special stamp collection celebrating "The Chronicles of Narnia." This issue invites philatelists, literary enthusiasts, and casual collectors alike to embark on an enchanting journey through this magical realm, one stamp at a time.

A Brief Overview of the Chronicles of Narnia

Before looking at the stamps themselves, let's take a quick jaunt through Narnia. C.S. Lewis's series, first published in the 1950s, includes seven books that transport readers to a world inhabited by talking animals, mythical creatures, and epic battles between good and evil. Central to these tales is the Pevensie siblings' adventures, beginning with their discovery of the magical wardrobe in "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe."

These stories have captured the imaginations of millions, selling over 120 million copies to date, offering profound insights into themes of courage, sacrifice, and redemption, all wrapped in the fantastical setting of Narnia.

For the Royal Mail Chronicles of Narnia stamp set, Robinson was commissioned to create eight illustrations depicting key scenes from each of the seven novels in C.S. Lewis's beloved series. His unique style brings the magic of Narnia to life, capturing its timeless appeal. The stamps are part of a special collection celebrating the 75th anniversary of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.

Keith Robinson is a British illustrator known for his work in children's publishing, particularly in book covers and narrative illustration. His art often features fantasy, mythological, fairytale, horror, and historical themes.

Robinson's artistic influences include classic children's illustrators like Pauline Baynes, who originally illustrated the Narnia books, as well as traditional animation styles from Studio Ghibli and early Disney concept artists. His work aims to blend a contemporary feel with a timeless quality, using light and colour to evoke emotion and atmosphere.

Pauline Baynes has been commissioned by Troyal mail to design the miniature sheet which is available as part of the retail offering.

The Royal Mail's Chronicles of Narnia stamp issue is a testament to the enduring appeal of C.S. Lewis’s magical world. These stamps, with their rich imagery and narrative depth, invite us to step once more into the wardrobe, where the adventures of Narnia await. While not essential, they offer a whimsical journey into a land where imagination knows no bounds—a perfect blend of nostalgia and artistry for those who hold Narnia dear to their hearts. Whether you're posting a letter or simply admiring them in your collection, these stamps carry a piece of Narnia's magic in every corner.

If you're interested in seeing the stamp collection, you can check it out on Royal Mail's website.